Aces Brace for Off‑Season Turbulence After Semifinal Sweep

When the final buzzer sounded in San Francisco and the Golden State Valkyries walked off the court with a clean 2‑0 sweep, the Las Vegas Aces felt a familiar sting. Anything short of a championship feels like a let‑down in a franchise that’s been hoisting trophies three times in the past four years.

Now the real work begins. The most pressing question hanging over the locker room is whether five‑time All‑Star guard Jackie Young will re‑sign. Young, fresh off a career‑best 18.9 points and 6.8 assists per game, is set to hit free agency, and her decision could shape the Aces’ next chapter.

“She had a career year,” head coach Becky Hammon said in the post‑game interview, her voice a mix of pride and concern. “Retaining her is a top priority for us. At the end of the day, it’s Jackie’s call.” If she stays, she’ll slot back into a core that includes five‑time MVP A'ja Wilson and six‑time All‑Star point guard Chelsea Gray – a trio that has already delivered three titles.

Wilson, ever the supportive big sister, hinted she’ll give Young space to decide. “I’m constantly in Jackie’s ear, but I know when to step back,” she explained. “Whatever she needs, I’ll be there, but I won’t crowd her.”

Should Young walk, the Aces aren’t sitting idle. Rumors swirl about a possible pursuit of Indiana’s sharpshooter Kelsey Mitchell or Minnesota’s versatile Napheesa Collier. Both would bring fresh firepower, though each comes with its own salary‑cap implications.

Coach Hammon also admitted the team’s defensive lapses, especially in the overtime loss that sealed the sweep, will be a priority in the coming months. “We’ve got to tighten up on that end,” she said. “Injuries to NaLyssa Smith, Jewell Loyd and others made it clear we need depth and resilience.”

In short, the Aces’ offseason is shaping up to be a blend of continuity and change. Whether it’s keeping the “Big Three” together or shaking up the roster, Las Vegas fans can expect a flurry of moves before the next season tips off.